Steps to Replacing Your Old Radiator


Old radiators can create problems at times. Removing and replacing the radiators that are old or are not functioning properly is the best solution to this. Replacing your old radiator with a fresh one can help you in maximizing the heating output and ensure efficiency.

Replacing your own radiator can also help avoid the expense of calling up a handyman for a job that you could do by yourself.

There are a few tools and material that you would need to carry out this job perfectly, which are

  • -          Screwdriver
  • -          Adjustable wrench
  • -          Radiator spanner
  • -          Radiator bleed key
  • -          Dust sheet and bowls/trays
  • -          Tape measure
  • -          Spirit level
  • -          PTFE tape

Note: Tape measure and spirit level would only be required if your new wall brackets do not match the old ones and you need to fix new holes to fit the new brackets. To avoid this, always try to choose a new radiator similar to the old one. This would also ensure that your pipe fittings match.

 

Step 1

The very first thing to do would be to turn off the heating, and isolating the radiator by closing off both the valves found at either end of the radiator. If you have a manual valve, turn it all the way in a clockwise direction. If the valve is thermostatic then turn it to ‘zero’ or ‘off’.

Step 2

Place a dust sheet right underneath the radiator, and put two bowls or trays under each of the valves. This would protect your floor from the water coming out of the radiator.

Step 3

Once both the valves are turned off and the trays are in position, undo the valves attached to the radiator using an adjustable wrench. You may want to have another wrench handy in case you need to hold down the valves on the pipes. This would help in stopping it from turning.

Step 4

After undoing both the valves, remove the old radiator from the wall. You can tilt it on either side to tip off any remaining water inside. Remember that radiators are usually a little heavy, so have someone help you while lifting it. Once the water is drained out, put the radiator aside.

Tip: This could be a good opportunity for you to fix the paint behind the radiator or any plaster job that needs to be done.

 

 Step 5:

If you are not planning on getting new valves and using the old ones, clean them up with a cloth and remove any old TPFE tape. Take the new valves or the cleaned ones and put a new layer of TPFE tape on it. Hold the valve in your left hand, and wrap the tape on in a clockwise direction. You should make about 10 wraps.

Step 6:

Bring out the new radiator and attach both the valves to it. For this, you would need a radiator spanner. Make sure both the valves are fitted perfectly and are not too tight.

Step 7:

Remove the old brackets and attach the new ones to the wall. If the new ones need new holes, use a tape measure to mark the positions, and fix the new brackets using a screwdriver.

Step 8:

Using someone’s help, lift the new radiator and carefully place it on the wall brackets. Now, connect the water piping to the radiator. Make sure to wrap PTFE tape on the valves on both the pipes. Tighten all the valve nuts and open both the valves.

Step 9:

Lastly, you would need to bleed your radiator. To do this, using a radiator bleed key, slowly open the bleed valve. You’ll hear steam coming out. Just when you see water trickling out, close the valve. Be sure to check for any leaks.

Step 10:

Turn the system on. Sit back, and relax!


Replacing your radiator is not as difficult as it seems. With a little bit of caution, and by following the right steps, anyone can do it without having to call the handyman services.

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